Disability Access Service Changes at Disney - Updated for 2025
- Brenda
- Feb 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 2
✨ Updated February 3, 2025
Disney has recently made two new updates to the Disability Access Service (DAS) program that may impact which guests qualify and how early you can apply. To skip to the orginal changes click here.
🆕 February 2025 DAS Updates
1. Subtle Wording Change May Impact Eligibility
Disney quietly removed the word "only" from its description of who qualifies for DAS. While the change appears small, it may signal a shift in how narrowly DAS is granted.
Old Language:“DAS is intended to accommodate only those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.”
New Language:“DAS is intended to accommodate those Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.”
This change may open the door slightly wider—or at least remove an added restriction in interpretation. We’ll be watching how it plays out in real-world application.
2. Application Window Extended to 60 Days
Guests can now apply for DAS up to 60 days before their trip (previously 30 days). This gives families who are not approved more time to adjust travel plans or cancel a Disney vacation package with a full refund if needed.
🧩 May 2024 DAS Overhaul: What Changed?
As of May 20, 2024 at Walt Disney World (and June 18, 2024 at Disneyland), major changes were introduced to the DAS program: 💬 Want to read our personal take on these DAS changes—and how they’ve affected real families like ours? Click here.
✅ Updated Eligibility Language
Disney revised its DAS eligibility statement to:
“DAS is intended to accommodate a small percentage of Guests who, due to a developmental disability like autism or similar, are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time.”
This language narrows eligibility by specifying the type of disability and emphasizing that DAS is intended for a small percentage of guests.
🖥️ Video Chat Registration Required
Guests must now pre-register via video chat, with no walk-up approval at Guest Relations in Walt Disney World.
The process now includes Inspire Health Alliance employees alongside Disney Cast Members to determine appropriate accommodations.
At Disneyland, you can still speak with someone in person, but starting June 18, 2024, the DAS registration area moves to the Esplanade between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: If you're unsure whether DAS is right for you, it’s best to do the video chat before your trip—just in case you need to adjust your travel plans.
❌ Consequences for Misuse
Walt Disney World’s website now states:
“If it is determined that any of the statements a Guest made in the process of obtaining DAS are not true, the Guest will be permanently barred from entering Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and any previously purchased Annual Passes, Magic Key passes, tickets and other park products and services will be forfeited and not refunded.”
⚙️ Additional DAS System Changes
Enrollment window extended to 120 days or the length of valid park admission (whichever is shorter).
Guests who no longer qualify for DAS may be offered a “return to queue” accommodation if they need to briefly leave a line.
Cast Members are receiving specialized training to better assist guests with diverse needs.
DAS Advance selections are no longer guaranteed for all DAS recipients.
Party size is limited to 4 guests, with limited exceptions for immediate family only (generally not including grandparents or adult children over 18).
🧭 What’s Staying the Same?
You’ll still use the My Disney Experience app to select return times for attractions.
Guests who previously had DAS will need to reapply if visiting after the change dates (May 20 for Walt Disney World, June 18 for Disneyland).
🧠 Planning for Neurodivergent Guests
We know these changes can be stressful. If you or someone in your travel party is neurodivergent, check out our related posts on navigating Disney with autism, anxiety, or sensory needs. We’re constantly updating resources to help you plan a smoother trip.
The updated Disability Access Service system at Walt Disney World and Disneyland has brought major changes to who qualifies, how guests apply, and what accommodations are available. While it may feel overwhelming, understanding the process ahead of time can make a huge difference in your trip planning. Whether you qualify for DAS or need alternative support, Disney still offers tools to help make the magic more accessible to every guest.
🧚 Pixie Dust Pro Tip: If you're unsure whether DAS applies to your situation, schedule your video chat early. It gives you time to make informed choices about your vacation—and peace of mind is priceless.
Have more questions about planning Disney with a disability? Our blog is full of firsthand experience, planning tools, and resources to help. You don’t have to figure it all out alone 💜
Pixie Dust Hugs,
Bren, Lyn, and Kim
Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation? Click here for our planning guide. Need tips for planning a Walt Disney World Vacation with someone with a disability? Check out the disability section of our blog here. Need help navigating the parks using DAS? Click here. No longer qualify for DAS and need help figuring out now to approach a day at the parks? Click here for our ideas on how to flip your thinking and still have a good experience at Disney.
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